C20-22 Alcohols ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a waxy structuring agent and emulsion stabilizer that adds body, slip, and a cushiony feel to creams, lotions, conditioners, and sticks. It also helps reduce the greasy feel of oils while supporting viscosity.
What does C20-22 Alcohols do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a waxy structuring agent and emulsion stabilizer that adds body, slip, and a cushiony feel to creams, lotions, conditioners, and sticks. It also helps reduce the greasy feel of oils while supporting viscosity.
Is C20-22 Alcohols clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well tolerated and has low irritation potential because it is a nonvolatile, wax-like lipid rather than the fast-evaporating alcohol type. It is not a common restricted-list issue in major clean standards.
Is C20-22 Alcohols sustainable?
This material is commonly sourced from plant oils, though sourcing can vary by supplier and may include palm-related feedstocks unless documented otherwise. It is expected to be biodegradable and has low environmental persistence compared with silicone or fluorinated materials.
Is C20-22 Alcohols COSMOS-approved?
It is generally compatible with COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic formulas when made from permitted natural-origin feedstocks and allowed processing routes. Its Green Chemistry profile is strongest when renewable sourcing, traceable supply chains, and simple hydrogenation or fractionation processes are used.
How does C20-22 Alcohols work chemically?
It is a waxy blend of saturated, straight-chain, high-carbon molecules with terminal hydroxyl groups, giving it a high melting point and low water solubility. Typical use is often around 0.5% to 5% for viscosity and texture, with higher levels in sticks or balms, and it is broadly pH-stable and useful for building lamellar structure with emulsifiers.
Last updated 2026-05-13